SE02E18 When Not to Advertise: Smart Marketing for Small Businesses | Adrian Garcia
By Billy Briefman · March 26, 2026 · 47:23 read
Category: But First, Principles
Show: But First, Principles
Today’s Guest: Adrian Garcia of B & G Collective Don’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-garcia-513639133/ This Episode: In this episode, we sit down with Adrian Garcia, growth marketer and co-founder of B & G Collective, to discuss what it really t
Today’s Guest: Adrian Garcia of B & G Collective
Don’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe
Guest Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-garcia-513639133/
This Episode:
In this episode, we sit down with Adrian Garcia, growth marketer and co-founder of B & G Collective, to discuss what it really takes to grow a small business sustainably.
Adrian shares his entrepreneurial journey, including starting a business with his wife, the challenges of early decision-making, and why investing in paid advertising too early can stall growth instead of accelerating it. The conversation focuses on practical growth marketing strategies for small and local businesses, especially in industries like construction, where project management, margins, and referrals play a critical role.
Topics covered include building a strong local reputation before running ads, the importance of a Google Business Profile, transitioning from technician to business owner, balancing operations with marketing, and learning to manage internal systems as a company grows. Adrian also explains how AI can enhance marketing efforts when aligned with core competencies, why referrals remain one of the most reliable growth channels, and how honesty and performance-driven strategies build long-term client trust.
This episode is packed with actionable insights for small business owners, marketers, contractors, and entrepreneurs who want to avoid common mistakes, build a solid foundation, and grow with clarity and purpose.
Key Takeaways
Build a strong local reputation before investing in ads
Paid advertising too early can stall growth
Referrals are one of the most reliable growth channels
Transitioning from technician to owner is critical for scaling
A Google Business Profile is essential for local visibility
Balancing operations and marketing is key to sustainable growth
Strong internal systems support long-term success
AI should enhance, not replace, core competencies
Honesty builds long-term client trust
Growth requires clarity, patience, and disciplined execution
But First, Principles with Colin Davis
Real stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.
Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success so you can grow without burning out.
This season, Season 2, we are featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond.
Helpful Links
Want practical tools to build a business that actually works?
Visit: https://www.firstprinciplescoaching.com
Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?
Email Colin: colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com
About Colin
Colin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children.
Keywords
Adrian Garcia, B & G Collective, growth marketing, entrepreneurship, small business marketing, digital advertising, local business, construction marketing, project management, AI in marketing, referrals, leadership, results-driven marketing, business growth
Cast: innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond.